September 04, 2012

Russian ferry operators to launch new routes to Estonia

Starting from summer 2013, Russian ferry operators will launch a new ferry route between Kroonlinn, a town near St. Petersburg in Russia, and the Estonian town of Kunda, writes Eesti Päevaleht.

Kunda that will be visited by a passenger ferry twice a week has agreed to build a new quay for the vessels. The quay will be built by Kunda Nordic Tsement that owns the port. According to plans, the ferry that can also take on board cars will bring about 700 Russian tourists a week to Kunda to see the sights in Northern Estonia.

“We will make the first trip next May. Kunda has little to see, but 40 kilometres from Kunda is Rakvere with its castle and excellent spa hotel,” says Aleksei Varssavski, CEO of Biskon that consults St. Petersburg ferry operators.

The construction of a new quay that could accommodate 150-metre-long ferry ships will cost between 5 and 10 million euros. Another plan is to launch a ferry line between Sillamäe, Kotka and Kroonlinn. The three cities have already signed a protocol of intentions.

In addition, the Sillamäe – Ust-Luga cargo line will be opened in September 2012. In spring 2011 Russian ferry operator St. Peterline launched a ferry line St. Petersburg-Stockholm-Tallinn-St Petersburg.